Wonder Woman 1984 is ambitious, emotional and uncynical

The prospect of a sequel is always daunting and given its success and acclaim 2017's Wonder Woman is an incredibly tough act to follow. Wonder Woman 1984 is markedly different to its predecessor but undoubtedly delivers an engrossing film with a powerful message.

Gal Gadot’s Wonder Woman has not lost any of its enchantment. She stands at the emotional center of a film that reminds you of the good of humanity, family, sacrifice, and being grateful in an increasingly dark and cynical world. Gadot as Wonder Woman is still exceptional and it is easily the film’s biggest asset. Her earnestness, vulnerability and strength leaps off the screen and effortlessly connects with the audience. It is irrefutable that Gal Gadot is the best on-screen female superhero bar none.

Wonder Woman 1984 is ambitious, emotional and uncynical

Wonder Woman 1984 excels on the canvas of the big cinema screen and the fast-paced action sequences are especially striking. The pacing of the narrative too flourishes seamlessly with Diana’s story. And in that is it’s own story too. Yes, Wonder Woman is on display in all her glorious might but it’s also a story of Diana Prince and her humanity.

Another highlight of the film is the two main villains. Pedro Pascal produces a vivid performances as the slowly unraveling and maniacal Max Lord. Barbara Minnerva, first introduced in 1943, will be well known to comic book fans as Wonder Woman’s archenemy. More than a few eyebrows would’ve raised when Kristen Wiig was cast to portray the character but fans should be more than pleased with Wigg’s performance.

Wonder Woman 1984 is ambitious, emotional and uncynical

It is an epic film in terms of scale and as an example of director Patty Jenkins’ considerable filmmaking abilities. Along with Geoff Johns Jenkins also penned the script that imbues sincerity and gravitas to the story. And as any film would be Wonder Woman 1984 is unquestionably enhanced by a score weaved together by the magical talents of Hans Zimmer.

Wonder Woman 1984 isn’t so much a sequel to the 2017 film. Instead, it builds its own momentum and delivers a seminal message of hope. It’s ambitious and emotional and uncynical in the best possible ways. If you need something uplifting Wonder Woman 1984 is just fabulous.

Screening courtesy of Ster Kinekor Baywest

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